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Are you on Facebook?  If so, click here and “Like” us:

 http://on.fb.me/f2ZZOO so you can get regular updates.

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LAST CALL:  LEWISTON MURDER-MYSTERY DINNER
Saturday, February 23, 6:30pm
BBC (Brickyard Brewing Co.), 436 Center Street, Lewiston
$49 per person ($45 for members)
Tickets and Info:  Call 716-754-4214

Looking for something fun and interesting to do on a cold Saturday
night in February?
Be sure to join us on February 23 at the Brickyard Brewing Company
(upstairs in the new banquet room) for an exciting evening of mystery
and murder!
WNY Improv will present The Morgan Affair Murder Mystery, based on
the true kidnapping of Masonic traitor William Morgan.  Morgan was
kidnapped and brought to the Frontier House and apparently taken to Fort
Niagara.  He disappeared without a trace.  It caused a national uproar.
In fact, Niagara County Sheriff Eli Bruce spent two years behind bars
for his role in the abduction.  Over 50 other Masons were indicted and
10 served jail time.
Tickets are selling fast by word of mouth, so be sure to get your
reservations in quickly.  Tickets include the performance, dinner and
dessert. $49 per person / $45 for HAL Members. Tickets can be purchased
by calling the Lewiston Museum at 716-754-4214.
Doors open at 6:30pm and the performance begins at 7pm.  This event
will be a great date-night or gift for anyone who appreciates our area’s
rich history and culture.
You can get more info here: http://bit.ly/morganmystery

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Chamber video of Lewiston.  Nice!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H2zykvyZ4G4

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DID YOU KNOW THAT BEFORE 1960 LEWISTON HAD ITS OWN FALLS?

Fish Creek Falls disappeared after construction of Parkway and culvert

See here:  http://goo.gl/HDHa36

     Before the Robert Moses Parkway (now Niagara Scenic Parkway) was

built before 1960, Lewiston had its own falls.  On the left you can see

Fish Creek falls.  Fish Creek ran through the Niagara Falls Country Club

golf course, and still does.  However, when the parkway was built, an

artificial cuivert was constructed and the falls disappeared.  On the

upper right, you can see the homes on Ft. Gray Drive.  There are a

number of caves in the area.

     This photo and descriptions were provided by Scott Ensminger from

North Tonawanda, WNYs foremost authority on local falls and caves.  You

can check out his website here:  http://falzguy.com/

     Scott was also interviewed by the Buffalo News here:

https://goo.gl/tY3UR8

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STRANGE ARREST AT FRONTIER HOUSE IN 1840

Incident sparks cross-border outrage

New placemat here: https://goo.gl/UQEPBr

     Our latest placemat focuses on the little known “Upper Canada

Rebellion” and civil unrest that engulfed Ontario in the late 1830s.  It

was a revolution of sorts, led by the Mayor of Toronto.  The rebels

wanted to establish a republic, similar to the United States.

     British troops squashed the revolt and even invaded the United

States to set fire to an American ship that was suspected of supplying

arms to the rebels. An American was killed in the attack and a suspect

was arrested at the Frontier House.  You can read all about it here: 

https://goo.gl/UQEPBr

     Thanks to Al Frosolone and the great folks at Niagara’s Choice

Federal Credit Union for their sponsorship and support for our ongoing

placemat series.

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WELCH FAMILY DISPLAYS 1813 RELIC 

Settlers grabbed silver utensils as they ran for their lives

https://goo.gl/dkqBk6

     In 1954, Lewiston historian Helen Kimball wrote a small booklet

called, A Homely Approach to Lewiston, NY.

     In discussing the British attack on Lewiston during the War of

1812, she mentions, “Dr. Alvord, one of the village physicians was

killed but Dr. Willard Smith escaped down the Ridge and aided the Cookes

to escape.  The Spaulding family had the table all set for a meal, they

gathered everything up in a tablecloth and ran.  One of the silver

spoons included in the contents of the cloth is now in the possession of

Ralph Hotchkiss, one of the descendants.”

     Lewiston resident Bob Welch is the grandson of Ralph Hotchkiss. 

Did Bob have possession of the famous spoon?  YES!  Better yet, Bob has

allowed us to photograph it.

     To our knowledge, it is the only relic in existence from that

horrific attack.  The Tuscaroras recused dozens of local residents from

a terrible fate that day.  You can see a photo of the spoon here: 

https://goo.gl/dkqBk6

     You’ll notice it is engraved with Rufus Spaulding’s initials.

     A big thank you to Bob and Anne Welch for sharing this important

artifact from Lewiston’s most important day in history.

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*** AWESOME VIDEO ***

See Niagara Falls like you’ve never seen it before — from a
small drone helicopter. This was posted in July and has been viewed
more than 1.2 million times! Click here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=cfoLYTKObiU

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NO HURRICANES, FOREST FIRES OR MUD SLIDES HERE

Yes, we have our share of snow, but for the most part, Western New
York is immune from the kinds of natural disasters that wreak havoc with
other sections of the country.
In fact, we live in one of the safest regions — the 4th safest in
the U.S. You might interested in learning about the Top 10 Safest
Cities: http://goo.gl/qNkhI1

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LEWISTON’S NEW “GOOD LUCK” KEEPSAKE

It’s Lewiston’s new “good luck” keepsake — a special Lewiston coin
that will become a sought-after collectible for generations. That’s why
you’ll want to get as many of these coins as you can to give as gifts to
your family members, loved ones, and former Lewiston residents who will
treasure the artistry and the message this coin conveys.
When you combine the Native American symbolism, the engraved
inscriptions and the high-relief 3-D design, along with the topicality of
the Tuscarora Heroes and the emerging appreciation of how dozens of
Lewiston residents were saved 200 years ago, you end up with a
precious memento that underscores the timeless friendship and bond
between the Tuscaroras and Lewistonians.
Now we can all be proud owners of a coin that captures the spirit of
brotherhood and deep bond that exists between us.
ALL proceeds from the sale of the coin will go to the Tuscarora Heroes
Monument project which will culminate in a spectacular unveiling on the evening of December 19, 2013 — 200 years to the day when a small band of Tuscarora men bravely halted the British attack on Lewiston and enabled dozens of Lewiston citizens to escape.
You can see the coin and get more details here: http://goo.gl/Bn5Dc

Still don’t know much about how the Tuscaroras saved us? It’s time
you learned the whole story. You can get the Tuscarora Heroes book at
DiCamillo’s in Lewiston, the Lewiston Museum, or the Book Corner in
Niagara Falls. It’s one of the most fascinating and unusual stories in
American history.
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Check out this new video trailer for the Historical Association,
produced by volunteer board member, Claudia Carnes. Great job,
Claudia! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FGULRtWiakk
If you aren’t a member yet, maybe this will convince you!
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Do you remember Lewiston’s slogan from the 1960s?
“Progressively proud. Historically endowed.”
Charles Foss (Jackie Sutherland’s dad) won the slogan contest!
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NEW TUSCARORA HEROES EDITION RELEASED

The newly revised sixth edition of the Tuscarora Heroes book has
been published by the Historical Association of Lewiston and is now
available at the Lewiston Museum, DiCamillos Bakery in Lewiston, the
Orange Cat Coffee Co., the Book Corner in Niagara Falls, and the Lewiston Town and Village halls.
The book, first published in 2010, includes several changes
including a new cover photo of the monument by photographer Bill
Carpenter and additional information about the British attack on
Lewiston in December 1813. Updated information about the identity of
the “Western Indian” attackers is also provided.
“We sold out of our supply the night the Tuscarora Heroes Monument
was unveiled on December 19,” said Lewiston Museum director Pam Hauth. Lee Simonson wrote the book as a volunteer and all proceeds go the Lewiston Museum. Groups or organizations interested in having him speak on the topic are welcomed to contact the Lewiston Museum at 716-754-4214 for arrangements.
The Tuscarora Heroes was the largest War of 1812 Bicentennial
monument project in the United States.

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“FROM THE MOUTH OF THE LOWER NIAGARA RIVER”
New book about Lewiston, Queenston, Youngstown and Niagara-on-the-Lake
Available by calling the Lewiston Museum at 716-754-4214

Published to commemorate 200 years of peace between Canada and the
U.S., this new book contains local stories from nine different authors —
all trans-river neighbors who met monthly and communicated electronically
for over three years to share history, oral stories, anecdotes, maps, and
photos.
Although the book follows a timeline and takes up some history, it is
not just about the “facts.” It presents some of the social history of the
lower Niagara River region.
Net proceeds from the book sales will be shared by three historical
societies — the Historical Association of Lewiston, Town of Porter
Historical Society and the Niagara Historical Society and Museum in
Niagara-on-the-Lake. All of these museums assisted with the research and provided historic images.
This unique collaborative bi-national writing project was funded by a
grant from the Niagara County Host Standing Committee of the Niagara River Greenway Commission, spearheaded by Vice Chair of the Niagara County Legislature, Clyde Burmaster, and a donation from the Niagara Falls Bridge Commission.
The book sells for $19.95 in both Canada and the United States.
Americans can get the book by calling the Lewiston Museum at
716-754-4214, while Canadians can contact the Niagara Museum in
Niagara-on-the-Lake.

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BATTLE OF QUEENSTON HEIGHTS PHOTOS AND VIDEOS
Lewiston sets new standard for hospitality within reenactor community Spectacular cannon/fireworks demonstration highlighted weekend

Rave reviews have been received from across America praising Lewiston and its volunteers for hosting what some reenactors are calling “the best event ever!” Virtually each of the 200 reenactors who visited the event said that they have never received the hospitality and accommodations that Lewiston offered — the most friendly and gracious town they’ve experienced!
The commemoration of the 200 Anniversary of the first major battle of
the War of 1812 took place on October 12-14, with venues in both Lewiston and Queenston.
Here is a compilation of some of the photos and videos you can find
online that have captured the event.

Bill Carpenter’s Photographs (more being posted)
http://www.pbase.com/decarr/battle_of_queenston_heights

Cannon Bombardment Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n8kYCcILSjs

Friday Education Day with Student Field Trippers
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j1BfyVGG5oE

Cannon Fire Over the Gorge
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AEn4Ym2eLRY

A Flash in the Pan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hn_u8tdWagg

Sun on the Canvas and Cakes in the Pan
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=orbmnezTtAE

Barton Hill Gala and Cannon Set Up
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7fz2_otL6hM

Battle Reenactment on the Canadian Side
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YNHPtBQwcQ

Battle Reenactment on Canadian Side (near end of battle)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1snXVVXrnS8

More Canadian Action and Speeches (in High Def)
http://vimeo.com/51749843

U.S. Air Force Flyover of Lewiston (just before bombardment)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i9LB29K2vwA

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LEWISTON: TOP 10 TOWNS IN AMERICA TO VISIT THIS SUMMER!
http://www.mikesroadtrip.com/ten-10-road-trip-towns-2012/

Lewiston is still basking in the Travel Channel glow… We were one
of the towns featured on the Travel Channel on July 25 for the Best of the Road rally. It’s nice to see Lewiston on the national map as one of the Top 6 towns in America for “Best for Food.”
But that’s not all! Mike’s Road Trip has just published the “Top 10
Towns to Visit” list and Lewiston is included as one of the friendliest
places in America. It was great to host Mike during his Rand
McNally/Travel Channel visit in June, and we look forward to seeing him again! Thanks, Mike!
Lewiston’s popularity continues to grow across the nation as its charm
and quality of life attracts more visitors and people who want to move
here.

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SPECTACULAR FLAMES EVENT CAPTURED IN PHOTOS

Thank you to all the reenactors, from both sides of the border,
and Wendt’s Propane for putting on a tremendous show.

Thousands turned out to this year’s Flames Through Lewiston event
to enjoy seeing all the action — British redcoats, American soldiers,
natives, and of course the music, the muskets, and the fires from
Wendt’s Propane! The weather cooperated and it was a great night
commemorating Lewiston’s history. This was a 100% volunteer effort
and we want to thank all the volunteer reenactors and organizers for a
tremendous and spectacular evening.
Here are the links to the videos and photographs that were taken that
night. We thank local professional photographer Bill Carpenter, and his crew, for the great shots. We also thank the video photographers and the press for the great coverage.

Professional pictures by DeCarr Photography:
http://www.pbase.com/decarr/flames_through_lewiston-2011

Buffalo News article with picture:
http://www.buffalonews.com/incoming/article676804.ece

Gazette front page article with photos:
http://tinyurl.com/6q84e3r

Chris Budde Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kVO_F1W_7PI

JAFERGarazzi Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcSKZ57V4II

Lewiston Lions Club Video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sj_UR_AX088

Still Pictures from Sentinel (click on Flames Through Lewiston)
http://www.wnypapers.com/image-gallery

Sentinel Videos on YouTube
http://bit.ly/A6AVJn
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Do you enjoy Historic Lewiston News? Maybe your friends would too. Feel
free to forward this newsletter. Better yet, just have your friends send
an email to: join@HistoricLewiston.org and we’ll put them on the list.
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MEMBERSHIP TIME
New Lifetime Member Option – Easy Sign Up on PayPal

Yes, it’s Historical Association membership time — a wonderful
opportunity to become a part of Lewiston’s emergence as Western New
York’s cultural centerpiece.

Membership Options:
Individual membership: $25 ($20 for seniors) (may purchase one
discounted ticket to the Tour of Homes)
Family membership: $40 (may purchase two discounted tickets to
the Tour of Homes)
Patron membership: $50 same as Family membership
Business membership: $100 (includes four discounted tickets to
the Tour of Homes)
Lifetime Member, $150 ($250 for family) (may purchase one
discounted ticket to the Tour of Homes, two discounted tickets
for family membership)

HOW TO RENEW OR BECOME A MEMBER: The easiest way to join is to
use PayPal online here: http://historiclewiston.org/gift.html
Otherwise just send a check payable to: Historical Association
of Lewiston, PO Box 43, Lewiston, New York 14092
Be sure to include your name, mailing address, email address,
and phone number. You can also call up 716-754-4214 and charge your
membership over the phone.
Either way, you’ll know you’re doing your part in preserving and
promoting Lewiston’s rich heritage. Thank you!

Stay tuned for the latest programs and events sponsored
by the Historical Association of Lewiston, New York